It’s been a cold and snowy spring so far, so warm yourself up with the latest and greatest news from around East Anglia.

Talks and courses

Barbara Miller will be speaking on the subject of The Eminent Women of Norwich at the Loddon and District history society on the 17th of April. The talk will be held at the Methodist Chapel in Loddon from 1:30 to 3:30 pm. Please book in advance – 01508 520120.

If you live in Essex, and you’re a beginner to the wonderful world of genealogy, you’ll be interested to know that the Essex Record Office is running Family history for beginners. Saturday 27 April, 10am-12pm. Tickets: £10. Please book in advance on 01245 244614.

Events

The wonderful Dragon Hall hold events all through the year. On the 24th of April, you can watch “The Long Life and Great Good Fortune of John Clare”. A story that explores the facts and myths about the life and health of England’s most loved ‘peasant poet’ John Clare by one of the east’s most well-regarded theatre companies.
Tickets can be booked on the Eastern Angles website.

And of course, don’t forget the beer festival in early may!

Beeleigh Abbey begins having open days on the 13th of April. One of the most ancient continuously occupied houses in Britain, this private house has stunning gardens which are open to the public twice a month.

Gill Blanchard

In May, Jarrold’s are holding a book launch event for Gill Blanchard’s latest book, Tracing Your House History. Join us on Thursday the 23rd in The Pantry Restaurant, on floor 3 of the famous Norwich department store.

May is a busy month for Gill, as she is also running a ten-week course on Writing your Family History to tie in with the new book, as well as running a number of courses for Pharos, including the 5 week long “The Poor, The Parish and The Workhouse – Records in the 18th and 19th Centuries”. If you are interested in this subject, book now, as spaces on Gill’s courses fill up fast.